It is difficult to single out one moment among so many memorable moments from the trip, but I would say a moment that stands out was when the group really bonded the second evening at Los Cuernos Refugia. I recall handing my traveling companion a cerveza Austral as we waited on benches for our bunk assignments. He was taking in the scenery and acknowledging my offer of cerveza and said: "I'm just happy, can't put my finger on it, but just happy". That seemed to summarize the group feeling as all stood together talking and talking in the momoment. I caught a glimpse of our guide Felipe giving us a knowing smile. He and I had trailed the group to Los Cuernos in the last 40 minutes of the hike, stopping to converse on the nature of synclines as we gazed across a pale turquoise-colored glacial lake at a particularly fine example. His passion for the resource and knowledge of details seemed to inhabit his every fiber. It was a prelude to many other such moments during the trek and articulated quite nicely by my companion at Los Cuernos as we all took in the day.

Great holiday

The trekking was the best I have done. There were challenges, even difficult parts, but all of it inspired wonder, admiration, and appreciation. While much of the fauna encountered on the trek is familiar to North Americans, the flora is strikingly different. This lent a somewhat exotic feeling to the trek. Our guides, Felipe' and Edwardo, provided excellent background details to help us understand what we were seeing and to appreciate ecosystem relationships. They identified plants, animals, geology, and described the geography, climate, and culture historical relationships in terms easily relatable to all on the trek. They had a very easy way about them and did very much to ensure an enriching experience for the group. Their knowledge of the resource and passion for the Patagonia seemed part of the fabric of their being and evident in everything they did as guides. Their convivial manner did much to make the trip supremely enjoyable. It was sad to part with them in the end. I would recommend the W Trek to other travelers and strongly recommend Felipe' and Edwardo as guides.

Safety and the wellbeing of hikers on the trail was at the forefront of our experience on the W Trek. Our guides Felipe' and Edwardo were quick to come to the aid of a hiker that fell from the trail down a rocky embankment. The fallen hiker was not in our group and coming from the opposite direction. A misstep sent her down the embankment. The response from Felipe' and Edwardo was immediate and appropriate for the incident. They assisted the woman and helped to return to the trail, shaken but uninjured. Their quick response taking control of the incident, helping the hiker, and easing the concern of others that observed the fall was appropriate and deserves recognition.

Carefully review the packing advice provided by Swoop and review the orientation video for further guidance. Also, check the reviews and comments of hikers that have made the trek for unique and insightful tips.

In many ways yes. On the practical side, I have decades of backpacked experience, but I learned new things on this trip about packing and how best to conserve energy on the hike. Good tips from good guides. On perhaps a bit higher level the trip broadened my outlook and world view. I did not think I would feel so comfortable as I did. A lesson I suppose for relaxation in the moment.

Arrival in Puerto Natales is a little frenetic. Perhaps some tips about getting to the town and hotel would be helpful - and perhaps I missed them.

I was very excited and anticipating many things leading up to the trip. I had been hiking in the Atacoma before landing in Puerto Natales and felt pretty prepared for Patagonia. To be sure there were things still to learn. Definitely, more socks next time.

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

I don`t know